A scrapbook full of memories sat waiting to be looked through. A table full of cake and food sat waiting to be consumed. Presents and cards sat waiting to say goodbye to Shelly Alpe, a retiring Crawford Elementary School teacher.

Alpe began her teaching career at Crawford in 1980 where she has served students for 33 years. She spent one year as a reading teacher and spent the next 32 years teaching third grade in the same classroom. A feat in itself, but her story becomes even more unique.

As an Arkansas Tech University graduate, Alpe did her student teaching at Crawford. She was also a student there for her own first- through sixth-grade years.

“We kind of jokingly say it’s a Hallmark movie waiting to happen,” principal Mark Gotcher said. “She’s just a fantastic rolemodel. Before I came here, I knew of Shelly Alpe and her reputation.”

Tears began to flow as portions of a letter from a group of teachers was read. This letter was the reason Alpe was honored as the Crawford Elementary building teacher of the year. Along with that, Alpe’s classroom where she taught for so many years will have a plaque outside dedicating the room to her.

“Shelly has been an integral part of Crawford for 33 years,” second-grade teacher Margie Huckabay said. “She heads up all kinds of committees. She touches people’s lives.

“She’s a good friend. She’s one of the faces of Crawford. I don’t even remember anything except Shelly here. I’ve been here 14 years, so it just won’t be the same.”